Aspartame

E number E951INS 951CAS 22839-47-0

Listed as a sweetener by Canada, Codex, the EU and the US.

Listed as sweeteners (CA, EU, US, Codex) · flavour enhancers (US, Codex)
Chemical structure of Aspartame, from PubChem compound 134601
Structure from PubChem CID 134601 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

Aspartame is an intense sweetener about two hundred times as sweet as sugar, used in diet soft drinks, tabletop sweeteners, chewing gum and yoghurts. Products containing it must carry a warning that it is a source of phenylalanine, for people with phenylketonuria.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Aspartame by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandPermitted, with conditions

58 food categories

highest permitted level 10,000 mg/kg

Show every food category
  • 0 Preparations of food additives — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 1.1.1 Liquid milk (including buttermilk) — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only. Only UHT goats milk.
  • 1.1.2 Liquid milk products and flavoured liquid milk — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 1.2.2 Fermented milk products and rennetted milk products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 1.3 Condensed milk and evaporated milk — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 1.4.1 Cream, reduced cream and light cream — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only. Only UHT creams and creams receiving equivalent or greater heat treatments.
  • 1.4.2 Cream products (flavoured, whipped, thickened, sour cream etc) — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 1.5 Dried milk, milk powder, cream powder — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 1.6 Cheese and cheese products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 10.2 Liquid egg products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 10.3 Frozen egg products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 10.4 Dried or heat coagulated egg products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 11.1.1 Rainbow sugar — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 11.3.1 Dried honey — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 11.4 Tabletop sweeteners — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 12.1.2 Reduced sodium salt mixture — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 12.1.3 Salt substitute — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 12.5 Yeast and yeast products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 12.6 Vegetable protein products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 13.3 Formulated meal replacements and formulated supplementary foods — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 13.4 Formulated supplementary sports foods — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 13.5 Food for special medical purposes — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.1.1.2 Carbonated, mineralised and soda waters — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.1.2.1 Fruit and vegetable juices — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only. For juice separated by other than mechanical means only.
  • 14.1.2.2 Fruit and vegetable juice products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.1.3 Water based flavoured drinks — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.1.3.0.1 Electrolyte drink and electrolyte drink base — 150 mg/kg
  • 14.1.3.3 Brewed soft drink — 1,000 mg/kgNote: Section 1.3.1—5 does not apply.
  • 14.1.4 Formulated Beverages — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.1.4 Formulated Beverages — GMPNote: Section 1.3.1—5 does not apply.
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions and similar products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.2.3 Wine based drinks and reduced alcohol wines — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.2.4.1 Fruit wine products and vegetable wine products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.2.5 Spirits and liqueurs — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 14.3 Alcoholic beverages not included in item 14.2 — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 2.1 Edible oils essentially free of water — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 2.2.1.2 Butter products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 2.2.1.3 Margarine and similar products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 2.2.2 Oil emulsions (<80% oil) — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 20 Foods not included in items 0 to 14 — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 3 Ice cream and edible ices — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 4.1.3 Fruits and vegetables that are peeled, cut, or both peeled and cut — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 4.3 Processed fruits and vegetables — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 5 Confectionery — 10,000 mg/kgNote: For additives 951, 955, 956, 961 and 962, section 1.3.1—5 limits do not apply to the use of permitted sweeteners in chewing gum and bubble gum.
  • 5.1 Chocolate and cocoa products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 5.2 Sugar confectionery — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 5.4 Icings and frostings — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 6.3 Processed cereal and meal products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 6.4 Flour products (including noodles and pasta) — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 7 Breads and bakery products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 8.2 Processed meat, poultry and game products in whole cuts or pieces — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 8.3 Processed comminuted meat, poultry and game products, other than products listed in item 8.3.2 — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 8.3.2 Sausage and sausage meat containing raw, unprocessed meat — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 8.4 Edible casings — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 8.5 Animal protein products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fish products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 9.3 Semi preserved fish and fish products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
  • 9.4 Fully preserved fish including canned fish products — GMPTechnological use consistent with section 1.3.1—5 only.
Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, S15—5and 57 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted, with conditions

highest permitted level 5,000 mg/kg

11 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Breakfast cereals. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 5,000 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(a)
  • In: Breath fresheners; Chewing gum. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 1.0%. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(b)
  • In: Confectionery glazes for snack foods; Sweetened coating mixes for snack foods; Sweetened seasonings for snack foods. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 1,000 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(c)
  • In: Filling mixes; Fillings; Topping mixes; Toppings; Unstandardized dessert mixes; Unstandardized desserts; Yogurt. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 3,000 ppm in the food as consumed. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(d)
  • In: Nut spreads; Peanut spreads; Unstandardized salad dressings. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 500 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(e)
  • In: Table-top sweeteners. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(f)
  • In: Unstandardized bakery products. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: Aspartame must be encapsulated to prevent degradation during baking. The amount not to exceed 4,000 ppm in the food as consumed. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0210. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(g)
  • In: Unstandardized beverage concentrates; Unstandardized beverage mixes; Unstandardized beverages. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 1,000 ppm in the beverage as consumed. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(h)
  • In: Unstandardized condiments. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 2,000 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(i)
  • In: Unstandardized confectionery; Unstandardized confectionery coatings. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 3,000 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(j)
  • In: Unstandardized fruit spreads; Unstandardized purées; Unstandardized sauces; Unstandardized table syrups. Purpose: Sweetener. Limit: 2,000 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9), item A.3(k)
Health Canada, List of Permitted Sweeteners (List 9)and 10 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

36 food categories

highest permitted level 2,500 mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.4 flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — 1,000 mg/lML = 1000 mg/l. only energy-reduced products or with no added sugar.
  • 11.4.1 table-top sweeteners in liquid form — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 11.4.2 table-top sweeteners in powder form — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 11.4.3 table-top sweeteners in tablets — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — 350 mg/kgML = 350 mg/kg.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — 110 mg/kgML = 110 mg/kg. only energy-reduced soups.
  • 12.6 Sauces — 350 mg/kgML = 350 mg/kg.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury-based sandwich spreads — 350 mg/kgML = 350 mg/kg. only Feinkostsalat.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg.
  • 13.3 Total diet replacement for weight control food as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — 800 mg/kgML = 800 mg/kg.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — 600 mg/lML = 600 mg/l. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinks — 600 mg/lML = 600 mg/l. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 14.2.1 beer and malt beverages — 600 mg/lML = 600 mg/l. only alcohol-free beer or with an alcohol content not exceeding 1,2 % vol; 'Bi&egrave;re de table/Tafelbier/Table beer' (original wort content less than 6 %) except for 'Oberg&auml;riges Einfachbier'; Beers with a minimum acidity of 30 milli-equivalents expressed as NaOH; Brown beers of the 'oud bruin' type.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — 600 mg/lML = 600 mg/l. excluding cydr jakościowy, perry jakościowe, cydr lodowy, perry lodowe.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 % — 600 mg/lML = 600 mg/l.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — 500 mg/kgML = 500 mg/kg.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — 500 mg/kgML = 500 mg/kg.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in category 1 3 and 4 — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’, — 2,000 mg/kgML = 2000 mg/kg.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — 600 mg/lML = 600 mg/l.
  • 18.2 Meal replacement for weight control as referred to in Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 — 800 mg/kgML = 800 mg/kg.
  • 3 edible ices — 800 mg/kgML = 800 mg/kg. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — 300 mg/kgML = 300 mg/kg. only sweet-sour preserves of fruit and vegetables.
  • 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only fruit energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only energy-reduced.
  • 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only energy-reduced jams, jellies and marmalades.
  • 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only energy-reduced jams, jellies and marmalades.
  • 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only energy-reduced jams, jellies and marmalades.
  • 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only energy-reduced fruit or vegetable spreads and dried-fruit-based sandwich spreads, energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — 2,000 mg/kgML = 2000 mg/kg. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweets — 2,000 mg/kgML = 2000 mg/kg. only cocoa- or dried fruit-based, energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — 2,500 mg/kgML = 2500 mg/kg. only with added sugar or polyols, as flavour enhancer. Note 12: If E 950, E 951, E 955, E 957, E 959 and E 961 are used in combination in chewing gum, the maximum level for each is reduced proportionally.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — 2,000 mg/kgML = 2000 mg/kg. only starch based confectionery energy reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only breakfast cereals with a fibre content of more than 15 %, and containing at least 20 % bran, energy reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — 1,000 mg/kgML = 1000 mg/kg. only essoblaten - wafer paper.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — 300 mg/kgML = 300 mg/kg. only sweet-sour preserves and semi-preserves of fish and marinades of fish, crustaceans and molluscs.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008and 35 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

34 food categories

highest permitted level 2,000 mg/kg or mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only energy-reduced products or with no added sugar.
  • 11.4.1 Table-top sweeteners in liquid form — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 11.4.2 Table-top sweeteners in powder form — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 11.4.3 Table-top sweeteners in tablets — quantum satisquantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — 350 mg/kg or mg/lML = 350.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — 110 mg/kg or mg/lML = 110. only energy-reduced soups.
  • 12.6 Sauces — 350 mg/kg or mg/lML = 350.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — 350 mg/kg or mg/lML = 350. only Feinkostsalat.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000.
  • 13.3 Dietary foods for weight control diets intended to replace total daily food intake or an individual meal (the whole or part of the total daily diet) — 800 mg/kg or mg/lML = 800.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — 600 mg/kg or mg/lML = 600. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — 600 mg/kg or mg/lML = 600. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 14.2.1 Beer and malt beverages — several limits(1) ML 600: only alcohol-free beer or with an alcohol content not exceeding 1,2 % vol; ‘ Bière de table/Tafelbier/Table beer ’ (original wort content less than 6 %) except for ‘ Obergäriges Einfachbier ’ ; Beers with a minimum acidity of 30 milli-equivalents expressed as NaOH; Brown beers of the ‘ oud bruin ’ type; (2) ML 25: only energy-reduced beer.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — 600 mg/kg or mg/lML = 600.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — 600 mg/kg or mg/lML = 600.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — 500 mg/kg or mg/lML = 500.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — 500 mg/kg or mg/lML = 500.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — several limits(1) ML 2000: no further restriction; (2) ML 5500: only food supplements in chewable form.
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — several limits(1) ML 600: no further restriction; (2) ML 5500: only food supplements in syrup form.
  • 3 Edible ices — 800 mg/kg or mg/lML = 800. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — 300 mg/kg or mg/lML = 300. only sweet-sour preserves of fruit and vegetables.
  • 4.2.3 Canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only fruit energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only energy-reduced.
  • 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only energy-reduced jams jellies and marmalades.
  • 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only energy-reduced jams, jellies and marmalades.
  • 4.2.5.3 Other similar fruit or vegetable spreads — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only energy-reduced fruit or vegetable spreads and dried-fruit-based sandwich spreads, energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — 2,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 2000. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — several limits(1) ML 2000: only cocoa or dried fruit-based, energy-reduced or with no added sugar; (2) ML 1000: only cocoa, milk, dried fruit or fat-based sandwich spreads, energy-reduced or with no added sugar; (3) ML 2000: only starch-based confectionery energy-reduced or with no added sugar; (4) ML 1000: only confectionery with no added sugar; (5) ML 6000: only breath-freshening micro-sweets, with no added sugar; (6) ML 2000: only strongly flavoured freshening throat pastilles with no added sugar.
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — several limits(1) ML 2500: only with added sugar or polyols, as flavour enhancer; (2) ML 5500: only with no added sugar. Note (12): If E 950, E 951, E 955, E 957, E 959 and E 961 are used in combination in chewing gum, the maximum level for each is reduced proportionally.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limits(1) ML 2000: only starch-based confectionery energy-reduced or with no added sugar; (2) ML 1000: only confectionery with no added sugar; (3) ML 2000: only cocoa or dried fruit-based, energy-reduced or with no added sugar; (4) ML 350: only sauces.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only breakfast cereals with a fibre content of more than 15 %, and containing at least 20 % bran, energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — 1,000 mg/kg or mg/lML = 1000. only essoblaten — wafer paper.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — 300 mg/kg or mg/lML = 300. only sweet-sour preserves and semi-preserves of fish and marinades of fish, crustaceans and molluscs.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008and 33 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyPermitted, with conditions
Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 15, アスパルテーム（別名Ｌ―α―アスパルチル―Ｌ―フェニルアラニンメチルエステル） (“Aspartame (L-alpha-Aspartyl-L-Phenylalanine-Methyl Ester)” in the unofficial English translation). …

Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 15, アスパルテーム（別名Ｌ―α―アスパルチル―Ｌ―フェニルアラニンメチルエステル） (“Aspartame (L-alpha-Aspartyl-L-Phenylalanine-Methyl Ester)” in the unofficial English translation). Standards for use — Specifications and Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. (MHW Notification No. 370 of 1959), Part II (Food Additives), F (Standards for use): The Notification sets no standard for use (使用基準) for this additive, so it is not restricted there to particular foods or amounts. Compositional specifications for this additive, in the same Notification, are not imported and are not shown here; nor are the general rules in F 添加物一般, which apply to every additive.

Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act (MHW Ordinance No. 23 of 1948), Appended Table 1retrieved 2026-10-18
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyPermitted, with conditions
Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. …

Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. 일반식품첨가물 (general food additives), 아스파탐 (“Aspartame”, the English the Code prints beside it). Main use (주용도) of 아스파탐: 감미료. Standard for use (사용기준) of 아스파탐: (1) [sets a limit on the amount used] “아스파탐의 사용량은 아래와 같으며, 아래의 식품을 제외한 식품의 경우 제한받지 아니한다. 1. 빵류, 과자, 빵류 제조용 믹스, 과자 제조용 믹스 : 5.0g/kg 이하 2. 시리얼류 : 1.0g/kg 이하 3. 특수의료용도식품 : 1.0g/kg 이하 4. 체중조절용 조제식품 : 0.8g/kg 이하 5. 건강기능식품 : 5.5g/kg 이하” The Korean is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the current Code (the English version on MFDS’s website is the 2020 edition and has no legal effect); the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications (Part IV) are not imported, nor are the general standards in Part II, which apply to every additive.

Standards and Specifications for Food Additives (식품첨가물의 기준 및 규격), MFDS Notification, Part III (Standards for use, by item)retrieved 2026-10-18
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationPermitted, with conditions21 CFR 172.804retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

65 food categories

highest permitted level 10,000 mg/kg

Show every food category and its notes
  • 01.1.4 Flavoured Fluid Milk Drinks — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 620 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003) at 1000 mg/kg. Combination rules for acesulfame potassium (INS 950) and aspartame-acesulfame (INS 962) apply.
    • Note 639 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS243-2003): for use in milk- and milk derivative-based products energy reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 01.3.2 Beverage whiteners — 6,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 201 For use in flavoured products only.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS250 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Evaporated Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CODEX STAN 250-2006).
    • Note XS252 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Sweetened Condensed Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CODEX STAN 252-2006).
  • 01.4.4 Cream analogues — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 68 For use in flavoured and/or sweetened products only.
  • 01.5.2 Milk and cream powder analogues — 2,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS251 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat in Powdered Form (CODEX STAN 251-2006).
    • Note 408 For use in flavoured and/or sweetened milk powder analogues only.
  • 01.6.1 Unripened cheese — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 201 For use in flavoured products only.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS221 Excluding products conforming to the Group Standard for Unripened Cheese including Fresh Cheese (CXS 221-2001).
    • Note XS262 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Mozzarella (CODEX STAN 262-2006).
    • Note XS273 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cottage Cheese (CXS 273-1968).
    • Note XS275 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cream Cheese (CXS 275-1973).
  • 01.7 Dairy-based desserts (e.g. pudding, fruit or flavoured yoghurt) — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 639 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS243-2003): for use in milk- and milk derivative-based products energy reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 02.4 Fat-based desserts excluding dairy-based dessert products of food category 01.7 — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 03.0 Edible ices, including sherbet and sorbet — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 04.1.2.1 Frozen fruit — 2,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 358 For use in products in a syrup or juice only.
  • 04.1.2.10 Fermented fruit products — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 04.1.2.11 Fruit fillings for pastries — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 04.1.2.12 Cooked fruit — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 04.1.2.3 Fruit in vinegar, oil, or brine — 300 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 04.1.2.4 Canned or bottled (pasteurized) fruit — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS319 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Certain Canned Fruits (CODEX STAN 319-2015).
  • 04.1.2.5 — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 04.1.2.6 Fruit-based spreads (e.g. chutney) excluding products of food category — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS160 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Mango Chutney (CODEX STAN 160-1987).
  • 04.1.2.7 Candied fruit — 2,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 04.1.2.8 Fruit preparations, including pulp, purees, fruit toppings and coconut milk — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS314R Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Date Paste (CODEX STAN 314R-2013).
  • 04.1.2.9 Fruit-based desserts, incl. fruit-flavoured water-based desserts — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 04.2.2.2 Dried vegetables (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), seaweeds, and nuts and seeds — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 348 For general use in dried seaweed.
    • Note 613 Except for products conforming to the Regional Standard for Laver Products (CXS 323R-2017), only for use in Seasoned Laver Products.
    • Note XS336R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for kava products for use as a beverage when mixed with water (North America and South West Pacific) (CXS 336R-2020).
  • 04.2.2.3 Vegetables (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), and seaweeds in vinegar, oil, brine, or soybean sauce — 300 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 04.2.2.4 Canned or bottled (pasteurized) or retort pouch vegetables (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), and seaweeds — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS57 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Processed Tomato Concentrates (CODEX STAN 57-1981).
    • Note XS257R Excluding products conforming to the Codex Regional Standard for Canned Humus with Tehena (CODEX STAN 257R-2007).
    • Note XS258R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Canned Foul Medames (CXS 258R-2007).
  • 04.2.2.5 Vegetable (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), seaweed, and nut and seed purees and spreads (e.g. peanut butter) — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS57 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Processed Tomato Concentrates (CODEX STAN 57-1981).
  • 04.2.2.6 Vegetable (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), seaweed, and nut and seed pulps and preparations (e.g. vegetable desserts and sauces, candied vegetables) other than food category 04.2.2.5 — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS57 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Processed Tomato Concentrates (CODEX STAN 57-1981).
    • Note XS259R Excluding products conforming to the Codex Regional Standard for Tehena (CODEX STAN 259R-2007).
    • Note XS308R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Harissa (Red Hot Pepper Paste) (CXS 308R-2011).
  • 04.2.2.7 Fermented vegetable (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera) and seaweed products, excluding fermented soybean products of food categories 06.8.6, 06.8.7, 12.9.1, — 2,500 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note XS294 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Gochujang (CXS 294-2009).
  • 04.2.2.8 Cooked or fried vegetables (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), and seaweeds — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 345 For use in curried products.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 613 Except for products conforming to the Regional Standard for Laver Products (CXS 323R-2017), only for use in Seasoned Laver Products.
    • Note XS334R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for fermented cooked Cassava-based products (Africa) (CXS 334R-2020).
  • 05.1.1 Cocoa mixes (powders) and cocoa mass/cake — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 97 On the final cocoa and chocolate product basis.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS141 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cocoa (Cacao) Mass (Cocoa/chocolate liquor) and Cocoa Cake (CODEX STAN 141-1983).
  • 05.1.2 Cocoa mixes (syrups) — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 97 On the final cocoa and chocolate product basis.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 05.1.3 Cocoa-based spreads, incl. fillings — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note XS86 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cocoa Butter (CODEX STAN 86-1981).
  • 05.1.4 Cocoa and chocolate products — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 37 Except for products conforming to the Standard for Chocolate and Chocolate Products (CODEX STAN 87-1981) at 2000 mg/kg.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 05.1.5 Imitation chocolate, chocolate substitute products — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 05.2.1 Hard candy — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 148 Except for use in microsweets and breath freshening mints at 10 000 mg/kg.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 05.2.2 Soft candy — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 148 Except for use in microsweets and breath freshening mints at 10 000 mg/kg.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS309R Excluding products conforming to the Codex Regional Standard for Halawa Tehenia (CODEX STAN 309R-211).
  • 05.2.3 Nougats and marzipans — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 05.3 Chewing gum — 10,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 05.4 Decorations (e.g. for fine bakery wares), toppings (non-fruit), and sweet sauces — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 06.3 Breakfast cereals, including rolled oats — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 06.5 Cereal and starch based desserts (e.g. rice pudding, tapioca pudding) — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 06.8.1 Soybean-based beverages — 1,300 mg/kg
    • Note 644 For use only in composite/ flavoured soybean beverages and soybean-based beverages conforming to the Regional Standard for Non-Fermented Soybean Products (Asia) (CXS 322R-2015) as a sweetener.
  • 07.1 Bread and ordinary bakery wares and mixes — 1,700 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 398 Some Codex Members allow the use of additives with sweetener and colour functions in this food category while others limit this food category to products without these additives.
  • 07.2 Fine bakery wares (sweet, salty, savoury) and mixes — 1,700 mg/kg
    • Note 165 For use in products for special nutritional use only.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 09.2 Processed fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — 300 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note XS36 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Finfish, Uneviscerated and Eviscerated (CODEX STAN 36-1981).
    • Note XS92 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Shrimps and Prawns (CODEX STAN 92-1981).
    • Note XS95 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Lobsters (CODEX STAN 95-1981).
    • Note XS165 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Blocks of Fish Fillet, Minced Fish Flesh and Mixtures of Fillets and Minced Fish Flesh (CODEX STAN 165-1989).
    • Note XS166 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Sticks (Fish Fingers), Fish Portions and Fish Fillets – Breaded or in Batter (CODEX STAN 166-1989).
    • Note XS167 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Fish and Dried Salted Fish of the Gadidae Family of Fishes (CODEX STAN 167-1989).
    • Note XS189 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Shark Fins (CODEX STAN 189-1993).
    • Note XS190 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Fillets (CODEX STAN 190-1995).
    • Note XS191 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Raw Squid (CODEX STAN 191-1995).
    • Note XS222 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Crackers from Marine and Freshwater Fish, Crustaceans and Molluscan Shellfish (CODEX STAN 222-2001).
    • Note XS236 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Boiled Dried Salted Anchovies (CODEX STAN 236-2003).
    • Note XS244 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Atlantic Herring and Salted Sprat (CODEX STAN 244-2004).
    • Note XS292 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Live and Raw Bivalve Molluscs (CODEX STAN 292-2008).
    • Note XS311 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Smoked Fish, Smoked-flavoured Fish and Smoke-dried Fish (CODEX STAN 311-2013).
    • Note XS312 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Live Abalone and for Raw Fresh Chilled or Frozen Abalone for Direct Consumption or for Further Processing (CODEX STAN 312-2013).
    • Note XS315 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Fresh and Quick Frozen Raw Scallop Products (CODEX STAN 315-2014).
  • 09.3 Semi-preserved fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — 300 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note XS291 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Sturgeon Caviar (CODEX STAN 291-2010).
  • 09.4 Fully preserved, including canned or fermented fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — 300 mg/kg
    • Note 144 For use in sweet and sour products.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note XS3 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Salmon (CODEX STAN 3-1981).
    • Note XS37 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Shrimps or Prawns (CODEX STAN 37-1991).
    • Note XS70 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Tuna and Bonito (70-1981).
    • Note XS90 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Crab Meat (CODEX STAN 90-1981).
    • Note XS94 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Sardines and Sardine-Type Products (CODEX STAN 94-1981).
    • Note XS119 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Canned Finfish (CODEX STAN 119-1981).
  • 10.4 Egg-based desserts (e.g. custard) — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 11.4 Other sugars and syrups (e.g. xylose, maple syrup, sugar toppings) — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 159 For use in pancake syrup and maple syrup only.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 11.6 Table-top sweeteners, including those containing high-intensity sweeteners — GMP
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — 2,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 12.3 Vinegars — 3,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 277 For use in flavoured vinegar and in rice vinegar only.
  • 12.4 Mustards — 350 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — 1,200 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note XS117 Excluding products conforming to the Codex Standard for Bouillons and Consommés (CODEX STAN 117-1981).
  • 12.6 Sauces and like products — 350 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 12.7 Salads (e.g. macaroni salad, potato salad) and sandwich spreads excluding cocoa-and nut-based spreads of food categories 04.2.2.5 and 05.1.3 — 350 mg/kg
    • Note 166 For use in milk-based sandwich spreads only.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 13.3 Dietetic foods intended for special medical purposes (excluding products of food category 13.1) — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 566 Excluding products conforming to the Guidelines for Ready to Use Therapeutic Foods (CXG 95-2022).
  • 13.4 Dietetic formulae for slimming purposes and weight reduction — 800 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 13.5 Dietetic foods (e.g. supplementary foods for dietary use) excluding products of food categories — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 13.6 Food supplements — 5,500 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 14.1.3.1 Fruit nectar — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 14.1.3.2 Vegetable nectar — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 14.1.3.3 Concentrates for fruit nectar — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 127 On the served to the consumer basis.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 14.1.3.4 Concentrates for vegetable nectar — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 127 On the served to the consumer basis.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 14.1.4 Water-based flavoured drinks, including "sport," “energy,” or "electrolyte" drinks and particulated drinks — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions, and other hot cereal and grain beverages, excluding cocoa — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 160 For use in ready-to-drink products and pre-mixes for ready-to-drink products only.
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 14.2.7 Aromatized alcoholic beverages (e.g. beer, wine and spirituous cooler-type beverages, low-alcoholic refreshers) — 600 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
  • 15.0 Ready-to-eat savouries — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 191 If used in combination with aspartame-acesulfame salt (INS 962), the combined maximum use level, expressed as aspartame, should not exceed this level.
    • Note 478 Some Codex Members allow use of additives with sweetener function in all foods within this Food Category while others limit additives with sweetener function to those foods with significant energy reduction or no added sugars. This limitation may not apply to the appropriate use as a flavour enhancer.
CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 951and 64 further provisionsretrieved 2026-09-07

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Australia and New Zealand150 mg/kg – 10,000 mg/kg3 numeric limit, 55 GMP
Canada500 mg/kg – 10,000 mg/kg9 numeric limit, 1 GMP, 1 no quantity stated
European Union110 mg/kg – 2,500 mg/kg33 numeric limit, 3 quantum satis
Great Britain110 mg/kg – 2,000 mg/kg25 numeric limit, 6 several limits, 3 quantum satis
Japan—1 no quantity stated
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
United States—1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius300 mg/kg – 10,000 mg/kg64 numeric limit, 1 GMP

What a label must say

Words a food containing Aspartame is obliged to carry, quoted from the instrument that imposes them. A required statement is a fact about the regulation, not a finding about the substance — every rule below applies where the additive is authorised.

Every rule collected at what a label must say.

What it is made from

A methyl ester of a dipeptide, made by joining the amino acids L-aspartic acid and L-phenylalanine, both produced by fermentation, and then methylating the result. It is digested into those components rather than excreted intact, which is why the phenylalanine declaration is required.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number
22839-47-0
InChIKey
IAOZJIPTCAWIRG-QWRGUYRKSA-N
PubChem
CID 134601

The two specifications, compared

The European Union sets identity and purity by regulation; JECFA publishes its own through FAO, advisory until a country adopts it. Both documents are below in full. These are the parameters each puts a number on.

ParameterEuropean UnionJECFA
Assayno less than 98 %no less than 98 %
Loss on dryingno more than 4.5 %no more than 4.5 %
Sulphated ashno more than 0.2 %no more than 0.2 %
Leadno more than 1 mg/kgno more than 1 mg/kg
Arsenicno more than 3 mg/kg—

The two documents state the same figures for every parameter compared here.

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 951 Aspartame

Synonyms: Aspartyl phenylalanine methyl ester

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
245-261-3
Chemical name
N-L-α-Aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-1-methyl ester, 3-amino-N-(α-carbomethoxy-phenethyl)-succinamic acid-N-methyl ester
Chemical formula
C₁₄H₁₈N₂O₅
Molecular weight
294,31
Assay
Not less than 98 % and not more than 102 % of C₁₄H₁₈N₂O₅ on the anhydrous basis
Description
White, odourless, crystalline powder having a sweet taste. Approximately 200 times as sweet as sucrose

Identification

Solubility
Slightly soluble in water and in ethanol
pH
Between 4,5 and 6,0 (1 in 125 solution)
Specific rotation
[α]D ²⁰: + 14,5° to + 16,5° Determine in a 4 in 100/15 N formic acid solution within 30 minutes after preparation of the sample solution

Purity criteria

Loss on drying
Not more than 4,5 % (105 °C, 4 hours)
Sulphated ash
Not more than 0,2 % (expressed on dry weight basis)
Transmittance
The transmittance of a 1 % solution in 2N hydrochloric acid, determined in a 1-cm cell at 430 nm with a suitable spectrophotometer, using 2N hydrochloric acid as a reference, is not less than 0,95, equivalent to an absorbance of not more than approximately 0,022
Arsenic
Not more than 3 mg/kg (expressed on dry weight basis)
Lead
Not more than 1 mg/kg (expressed on dry weight basis)
5-Benzyl-3,6-dioxo-2-piperazineacetic acid
Not more than 1,5 % (expressed on dry weight basis)

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 951

How JECFA defines it

The international specification for identity and purity, prepared by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and published by FAO. It is a different document from any above, written by a different body and revised on its own cycle; it is advisory, and a country adopts it or does not.

INS 951 Aspartame

Aspartame is a dipeptide methyl ester of L-aspartic acid and L-phenylalanine. It is produced chemically or enzymatically. Chemical synthesis of aspartame is accomplished by reacting L-phenylalanine or L-phenylalanine methyl ester with N-protected L-aspartic anhydride. This is followed by separation and crystallization of the major component, α -aspartame, from its non-sweet isomer, β -aspartame.

Synonyms: Aspartyl phenylalanine methyl ester, α -aspartame, L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester, N-L- α -aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-1-methyl ester, APM APM; Aspartyl phenylalanine methyl ester

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history
2 out of 6 Revised specifications prepared at the 96th JECFA (2023) and published in FAO JECFA Monograph 31 (2023) superseding specifications prepared at the 82nd JECFA (2016). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 57th JECFA (2001). An ADI of 0-40 mg/kg bw was established at the 25th JECFA (1981).
Chemical names
3-Amino-N-(alpha-carboxy-phenethyl)-succinamic acid, L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine-1-methyl ester
C.A.S. number
22839-47-0
INS number
951
Chemical formula
C14H18N2O5
Formula weight
294.30
Assay
Not less than 98.0% and not more than 102.0% on the dried basis See description under TESTS
DESCRIPTION
White, odourless, crystalline powder
FUNCTIONAL USES
Sweetener, flavour enhancer 3 out of 6
METHOD OF ASSAY
Apparatus High performance liquid chromatograph equipped with a UV detector. Reagents and Solutions: Buffer solution: 0.05 M monobasic potassium phosphate adjusted with phosphoric acid to pH 4.3 Mobile phase: Methanol and Buffer solution (18:82) System suitability, Standard and Sample Preparation: Diluent: Methanol and water (1:9) System suitability solution: 0.1 mg/ml each of DKP Reference Standard and L-phenylalanine Reference Standard in Diluent Standard solution: 0.5 mg/ml of aspartame Reference Standard in Diluent. Sample solution: 0.5 mg/ml in Diluent. [NOTE— Prepare Standard and Sample solutions immediately before injection, avoiding exposure to heat. Use aspartame Reference Standard and DKP Reference Standard (Aspartame related compound A) from the United States Pharmacopeial Convention, or equivalent.] Procedure: HPLC Conditions: 6 out of 6 Column: 250-mm × 4.6-mm column that contains 5- μm octadecylsilane chemically bonded to porous silica or ceramic micro-particles (Lichrospher 100RP-18 (Merck KGaA), or equivalent) Column temperature: 40 °C Flow rate: 2 ml/min Injection volume: 20 μl Run time: 45 min System suitability Suitability requirement 1: The relative standard deviation, RSD, for the aspartame peak area is not more than 1.0% for five replicate injections of the Standard solution . Suitability requirement 2: The resolution, R, between L-phenylalanine and DKP in the System suitability solution is not less than 8. [NOTE: The relative retention times for L-phenylalanine and DKP are 0.6 and 1.0, respectively.] Suitability requirement 3: The tailing factor for the aspartame peaks in the Standard solution is not more than 1.5. Analysis: Separately inject equal volumes of the Standard solution and the Sample solution into the chromatograph, record the chromatograms, and measure the responses for the major peaks on the resulting chromatograms. Calculation: 𝑃𝑃 𝑈𝑈 𝐶𝐶𝑆𝑆 𝐷𝐷 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃 𝑜𝑜𝑜𝑜 𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃 𝐴𝐴 𝑃𝑃 = × × 100 𝑃𝑃 𝑆𝑆 𝐶𝐶𝑈𝑈 where rU = peak response of aspartame in the Sample solution rS = peak response of aspartame in the Standard solution CS = concentration of in the Standard solution (mg/ml) CU = concentration of the Sample solution (mg/ml)

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4)
Slightly soluble in water and practically insoluble or insoluble in ethanol
Test for amine group
Dissolve 2 g of ninhydrin in 75 ml of dimethylsulfoxide, add 62 mg of hydrindantin, dilute to 100 ml with 4 M lithium acetate buffer solution (pH 9), and filter. Transfer about 10 mg of the sample to a test tube, add 2 ml of the reagent solution, and heat. A dark purple colour is formed.
Test for ester
Dissolve about 20 mg in 1 ml of methanol, add 0.5 ml of methanol saturated with hydroxylamine hydrochloride, mix, then add 0.3 ml of 5 M potassium hydroxide in methanol. Heat the mixture to boiling, then cool, adjust the pH to between 1 and 1.5 with hydrochloric acid TS, and add 0.1 ml of ferric chloride TS. A burgundy colour is produced.

Purity criteria

Loss on drying (Vol. 4)
Not more than 4.5% (105 °C, 4 h)
pH (Vol. 4)
4.5 - 6.0 (1 g in 125 ml solution)
Specific rotation
[ α ] 20 : Between + 14.5° and + 16.5° (4% solution in 15 M formic acid; D
(Vol. 4)
determine within 30 min after preparation of the sample solution)
Sulfated ash (Vol. 4)
Not more than 0.2% Test 5 g of the sample (Method I)
Lead (Vol. 4)
Not more than 1 mg/kg Determine using a method appropriate to the specified level. The selection of sample size and method of sample preparation may be based on the principles of the method described in Volume 4, “Instrumental Methods.”
5-Benzyl-3,6-dioxo-2- piperazineacetic acid
Not more than 1.5% See description under TESTS
Other related impurities
Not more than 2.0% See description under TESTS 4 out of 6
Test: DKP
Apparatus High performance liquid chromatography system equipped with a UV detector. Reagents and solutions Mobile phase: Dissolve 5.6 g of potassium dihydrogen phosphate in 820 ml of water before adjusting the pH to 4.3 with 10% phosphoric acid solution. Add 180 ml of methanol to 820 ml of this solution and mix well. Standard Preparation Standard stock solution: Dissolve 25 mg DKP Reference Standard (Aspartame Related Compound A from The United States Pharmacopeial Convention, or equivalent) in 10 ml of methanol and dilute to 100 ml with water. Standard solutions: Dilute the standard stock solution with 10% methanol to concentrations of 100, 75, 50, 25 and 5 μg/ml. Sample Preparation Accurately weigh 100 mg of the sample and dissolve in 10% methanol to make exactly 20 ml (5 mg/ml). Procedure HPLC conditions : Column: L- column2 ODS (4.6 mm I.D. × 150 mm, particle size: 5 μm, Chemical Evaluation and Research Institute, Japan) or equivalent Column temperature: 40 °C Mobile phase: Mixture of phosphate buffer solution (0.05 mol/l, pH 4.3) and methanol (82:18 v/v) Flow rate: 1.0 ml/min Injection volume: 20 μl Detector: UV at 210 nm Run Time: 50 min Inject the sample and read the concentration of the sample from the standard curve. Calculation Calculate the content (%) of DKP using the following formula: 𝐶𝐶 × 𝑉𝑉 × 0.1 % 𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷𝐷 = 𝑊𝑊 where C is the concentration of DKP in the sample solution (μg/ml) V is the volume of the sample solution (20 ml) 5 out of 6 W is the weight of the sample (mg)
Test: Other related impurities
Apparatus High performance liquid chromatograph equipped with a UV detector. Reagents and Solutions: Use the Reagents and Solutions, Diluent, System suitability solution, and HPLC Conditions described in the METHOD OF ASSAY. Sample stock solution: 5 mg/ml in Diluent. [Prepare immediately before injection.] Sample solution: Using the Sample stock solution , prepare a 0.1 mg/ml solution in Diluent. System suitability Suitability requirement 1: The resolution, R, between L-phenylalanine and DKP in the System suitability solution is not less than 8. Analysis: Separately inject equal volumes of the Sample stock solution and the Sample solution into the chromatograph, record the chromatograms, and measure the sum of responses for the major peaks on the resulting chromatograms. The sum of all peak responses of the Sample stock solution , excluding DKP and aspartame, is not more than the aspartame peak response of the Sample solution (not more than 2.0%).

FAO JECFA Monograph 31 (2023)

Every name it appears under

74 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E951

INS number

  • 951

CAS registry number

  • 22839-47-0
  • 53906-69-7

As it appears in regulation

  • Aspartame

Other names

  • 1-Methyl N-L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalanate
  • 1-Methyl N-L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine
  • 3-Amino-N-(alpha-carboxyphenethyl)succinamic acid N-methyl ester
  • 3-Amino-N-(alpha-methoxycarbonylphenethyl) succinamic acid
  • Aminosweet
  • Asp-Phe methyl ester
  • Asp-phe-ome
  • Aspartam
  • Aspartame
  • Aspartame (e951)
  • Aspartame, L,L-alpha-
  • Aspartamo
  • Aspartamum
  • Aspartyl phenylalanine methyl ester
  • Aspartylphenylalanine methyl ester
  • Aspartylphenylalanine, Methyl
  • c-mer
  • Canderel
  • CCRIS 5456
  • Dipeptide sweetener
  • E 951
  • Equal
  • Gold, Hermesetas
  • H-Asp-Phe-OMe
  • HSDB 3915
  • Ins no.951
  • Ins-951
  • L-Aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester
  • L-Aspartyl-L-phenylalanyl methyl ester
  • L-Phenylalanine, L-alpha-aspartyl-, 2-methyl ester
  • L-Phenylalanine, N-L-.alpha.-aspartyl-, 1-methyl ester
  • L-Phenylalanine, N-L-alpha-aspartyl-, 1-methyl ester
  • Methyl aspartylphenylalanate
  • Methyl Aspartylphenylalanine
  • Methyl Ester, Aspartylphenylalanine
  • Methyl L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalanate
  • methyl L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalaninate
  • Methyl L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine
  • Methyl N-L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalaninate
  • N-L-ALPHA-ASPARTYL L-PHENYLALANINE 1-METHYL ESTER
  • N-L-alpha-Aspartyl-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester
  • N-L-alpha-Aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester
  • Nutrasweet
  • Pal Sweet
  • Palsweet Diet
  • PME
  • Sanecta
  • Sladex
  • Sweet dipeptide
  • Tri Sweet
  • Tri-sweet
  • TriSweet
  • Z0H242BBR1
  • Zero-cal

Systematic names

  • (3S)-3-amino-3-{[(2S)-1-methoxy-1-oxo-3-phenylpropan-2-yl]carbamoyl}propanoic acid
  • (3S)-3-amino-4-[[(2S)-1-methoxy-1-oxo-3-phenylpropan-2-yl]amino]-4-oxobutanoic acid
  • (3S)-3-azaniumyl-4-(((2S)-1-methoxy-1-oxo-3-phenylpropan-2-yl)amino)-4-oxobutanoate
  • (S)-3-Amino-4-(((S)-1-methoxy-1-oxo-3-phenylpropan-2-yl)amino)-4-oxobutanoic acid
  • Succinamic acid, 3-amino-N-(alpha-carboxyphenethyl)-, N-methyl ester, stereoisomer

Hazard reference values

EFSA and JECFA have both set an acceptable daily intake for Aspartame, and they agree: 40 mg/kg bw/day. An acceptable daily intake is a reference value set by a committee, not a threshold above which harm begins. See where the two committees differ.

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
TypeValuePopulationAssessed byOpinion
ADI40 mg/kg bw/day—JECFA2023
ADI40 mg/kg bw/dayconsumersEFSAnot identified in the dataset

Evidence and how bodies read it

What assessing bodies concluded

Each conclusion is paraphrased in the body's own framing, from the published opinion linked beneath it. Where bodies differ, both stand; this site does not adjudicate between them or add a view of its own.

  1. EFSA 2026

    Assessing the salt of aspartame-acesulfame (E 962) through its components, the FAF Panel relied on the 2025 acesulfame K ADI of 15 mg/kg bw/day and, after updating its assessment of aspartame, confirmed the aspartame ADI of 40 mg/kg bw/day. Exposure did not exceed either ADI, and it concluded there is no safety concern at reported uses for E 950, E 951 and E 962.

    Source document

  2. IARC 2023

    Classified aspartame as Group 2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans, on limited evidence for hepatocellular carcinoma in humans. IARC classifies hazard — whether an agent can cause cancer in some circumstances — and does not assess the risk at actual intakes.

    Action taken: Hazard classification issued

    Source document

  3. JECFA 2023

    Reviewed the same evidence as a risk assessment and reaffirmed the acceptable daily intake of 40 mg per kg of body weight per day, finding no sufficient reason to change it. The two conclusions are not contradictory: they answer different questions.

    Action taken: Acceptable daily intake reaffirmed

    Source document

  4. EFSA 2013

    In its full re-evaluation of aspartame (E 951), the ANS Panel concluded that aspartame and its breakdown products were not of safety concern at current exposure estimates or at the ADI, and saw no reason to revise the ADI of 40 mg/kg bw/day. It stated that the ADI does not apply to people with phenylketonuria (PKU).

    Source document

  5. EFSA 2013

    Considering two reports published after its public consultation closed (a review of the Ramazzini Foundation studies and the US EPA's methanol review), the ANS Panel concluded that neither altered its risk assessment of aspartame, and EFSA confirmed the ADI of 40 mg/kg bw/day.

    Source document

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is E 951?
E 951 is Aspartame. Aspartame is an intense sweetener about two hundred times as sweet as sugar, used in diet soft drinks, tabletop sweeteners, chewing gum and yoghurts. Products containing it must carry a warning that it is a source of phenylalanine, for people with phenylketonuria.
What is Aspartame used for in food?
It is listed as a sweetener — the role Canada, Codex, the EU and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Aspartame permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, the EU, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, the US and the Codex standard permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is Aspartame vegan?
Yes. Aspartame is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • anz retrieved 2026-10-17
  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jp retrieved 2026-10-18
  • kr retrieved 2026-10-18
  • ecfr retrieved 2026-10-17
  • gsfa retrieved 2026-09-07
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jecfaspecs retrieved 2026-09-23

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

Machine-readable: a JSON record of this additive is given on request —how to ask for access.

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